2019 Ford Shelby GT350 is tailored to the track

Ford Performance has released details on the upgraded 2019 Shelby GT350 Mustang. Tuned to improve lap times on the track, changes to the GT350 Mustang include aerodynamic improvements and new tires from Michelin that promise to deliver enhanced balance and precision.

"Somewhere, Carroll is smiling," says Hermann Salenbauch, global director for Ford Performance vehicle programs. "The new Shelby GT350 is our ultimate track Mustang. We've stuck to Carroll Shelby's original formula for winning championships and made our Shelby GT350 even better with the latest in race-proven aerodynamics, tire and chassis technology."

The new tire from Michelin, the Pilot Sport Cup 2, has tread patterns and formulation created specifically for the Shelby GT350 and its performance metrics. The tires – 295/35 front and 305/35 rear on 19-inch aluminum alloy wheels – have significantly improved acceleration and lateral acceleration as well as braking according to Ford Performance.

Also added to the 2019 Shelby GT350 is a new rear spoiler with optional Gurney flap and optimized grille closeout designs, all derived from wind tunnel experimentation. Ford Performance Mustang uses road course racing cars for testing and has used the knowledge gained there to improve this new 2019 model, as well as the promised upcoming GT500 model.

Active suspension changes for the GT350 are designed to complement aerodynamic forces on the car and the new tire grip metrics for better track advantage. Six-piston front and four-piston rear calipers from Brembo also feature on the 2019 model.

Billy Johnson, FIA World Endurance driver and Ford GT and IMSA Mustang GT4 program driver, says the result of the new Mustang Shelby GT350's aerodynamics tuning, revised brake calibration, and much greater downforce is a more balanced, higher-performing car on the straightaways and especially in the corners.

The 2019 GT350 is powered by a 5.2-liter V8, which produces 526 horsepower (392 kW) and 429 lb-ft (582 Nm) of torque. Its redline is at 8,250 rpm and it's mated to a six-speed manual transmission from Tremec.

The production 2019 Shelby GT350 will feature a newly-upgraded interior with several options, including exposed carbon fiber and Miko suede. New colors are also being added, including both Velocity Blue and Ford Performance Blue, while racing strips can be painted on in any of three colors.

The 2019 Shelby GT350 will become available in early 2019 and each vehicle will come with enrollment in an exclusive Track Attack driving program from Ford Performance.